Buddy Thomas

Elijah "Buddy" Riley Thomas, 83, of Hot Springs, Arkansas passed away June 30, 2025. He was born October 10, 1941 in Bay, Arkansas, to Daniel Thomas and Fannie Watson Thomas.
Buddy faithfully served as a Deacon at the Assembly of God church for many years, offering his time and heart to his community and congregation. He retired after 35 dedicated years as a mechanic with Weyerhaeuser, where his strong work ethic and skill left a lasting impression. An avid outdoorsman, Buddy found great joy in fishing-happy to cast a line for anything that would bite-and took pride in tending to his elaborate vegetable garden, especially his prized garlic, which he generously shared with neighbors and friends. In quieter moments, he enjoyed woodworking, crafting pieces that reflected his care and creativity.
Buddy was preceded in death by his parents Daniel and Fannie Thomas; grandchild Jordan Thomas and brothers and sisters.
Survivors include his loving wife, Bonnie Thomas; children Tina and Danny Bell; Eddie Thomas; Grandchildren Tori and Shawn LeBouef; Chase Bell; Jaycee Jenkins; Great-Grandchildren Braydon Pieper; Amelia LeBouef; River Jenkins and sister Jean Hargrove; as well as many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Buddy's life will be 2:00 p.m. Monday at Caruth-Hale Funeral Home with a visitation one hour prior. Pastor Danny Bell and Pastor Mike Mason will be officiating. Burial to follow service at Crestview Cemetery.
Pallbearers include Eddie Thomas; Chase Bell; Kevin Young; Daley Young; Donnie Willis and Shawn LeBouef.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the Med 3 Nurses Station at the National Park Medical Center.